Urban Planning and Zoning Manager

The City of Decatur is seeking a seasoned urban planning leader to guide citywide planning, zoning, and land use policy. Reporting to the Economic & Community Development Director, this role serves as the City’s principal advisor on planning and development while shaping policies and initiatives that support sustainable growth, economic vitality, and quality of life.

This position provides executive-level exposure with direct influence on city policy and development outcomes. You’ll lead a talented planning team, oversee the City’s Municipal Planning Organization (MPO), modernize development regulations, and guide community-focused planning initiatives that support sustainable growth and livability.

• Oversee and direct all Planning Division activities, including MPO functions, while providing leadership and supervision to planning staff.
• Lead development, implementation, and regular updates of the City's Comprehensive Development Plan and specialized area plans
• Design and launch innovative planning initiatives addressing housing, transportation, sustainability, accessibility, and urban design
• Oversee administrative functions including budget preparation and monitoring, expenditure tracking, record management, and reporting

• Oversee preparation and amendment of the Zoning Ordinance to align with community goals and legal requirements
• Review, analyze, and evaluate development proposals, site plans, and land use applications for conformance with zoning and design guidelines
• Provide expert guidance to developers, property owners, and consultants on planning requirements and regulatory compliance

• Oversee the Decatur Urbanized Area Transportation Study (DUATS), serving as the Municipal Planning Organization (MPO)
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including preparation and submission of required federal reports, plans, and documentation
• Coordinate with state DOT, federal agencies, and regional partners on planning and transportation initiatives

• Prepare and deliver presentations, reports, and recommendations to the Planning & Zoning Commission, City Council, Technical Advisory Committee, and other boards
• Serve as primary staff liaison to the Planning & Zoning Commission and related committees
• Facilitate public meetings and community engagement activities
• Represent the City at regional planning meetings, professional conferences, and intergovernmental forums

• Bachelor's degree in urban planning, regional planning, geography, or related field required
• Master's degree preferred
• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification required within 18 months of hire

• 5 years of progressively responsible professional planning experience including work in comprehensive planning, zoning administration, land use regulation, or development review
• Local government planning experience preferred
• Minimum of 1 year of supervisory or team leadership experience with demonstrated leadership, team-building, and conflict resolution skills
• An equivalent combination of education, experience, and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered

• Comprehensive knowledge of urban and regional planning principles, land use law, zoning administration, and Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) operations
• Understanding of economic development, housing policy, sustainability, and community design practices
• Strong analytical and research skills with ability to collect, interpret, and synthesize complex data
• Proficiency with GIS software (ArcGIS or similar)
• Excellent written communication skills; ability to prepare concise reports, presentations, and policy documents

We support our employees with a strong package that includes:

• Competitive Benefits: 14.5 paid holidays per year (including 2 employee-selected days), comprehensive health coverage, an excellent pension plan, paid vacation, and sick leave
• Relocation Reimbursement: Financial…